Open 9/11 Remembrance to Prayer

At a time when family and friends will gather at Ground Zero to commemorate the loss of thousands murdered in the nation's worst terrorist attack, the remembrance likely will be even more painful for many.

Why?

Mayor Bloomberg says the city will not permit clergy - any clergy - to participate at the 10th anniversary of 9/11. No public prayer. Period. From the Mayor: "Everybody would like to participate, but the fact is that everyone cannot participate."

Why ban clergy and religious leaders from participating in such an important event? This is absolutely ridiculous and offensive to the thousands of Americans who find comfort and solace in prayer. For many, 9/11 is not a distant memory. It's still very real - they face day-to-day struggles to cope with the loss of loved ones.

There's been an overwhelming reaction of anger and disappointment to the Mayor's decision. Former Deputy Mayor, Rudy Washington, who was at Ground Zero on 2001, simply put it: "I just find it offensive."

This decision by Mayor Bloomberg is wrong and should be reversed. That's why we're mobilizing thousands of Americans to send a message to Mayor Bloomberg - prayer is an integral part of the tragedy of 9/11. Please reconsider and permit clergy to take part in this most solemn event.

Sign on to our letter to Mayor Bloomberg now. Add your name here.